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Could Franchising Be For You with Mary Kennedy Thompson
In this episode, Melinda Emerson introduces Mary Kennedy Thompson, who shares her journey from military service to a thriving career in franchising. Mary discusses her experience running a Cookies by Design franchise and her transition to the franchisor side, highlighting her leadership roles at Mr. Rooter Plumbing and Neighborly. She also delves into her current role at BNI, emphasizing key leadership values and insights.
Mary Kennedy Thompson is CEO of BNI (Business Networking International), the world’s largest networking franchise. A true business trailblazer, she’s a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, a licensed plumber, and a dynamic leader who has guided major franchise brands, including Neighborly and BNI. As Chair of the International Franchise Association, Mary exemplifies how leadership rooted in service, discipline, and vision can transform entire industries. She is a powerful example of what it means to lead with purpose. For more information: https://www.bni.com/
(0:00) Introduction by Melinda Emerson
(1:08) Guest introduction: Mary Kennedy Thompson
(2:20) Mary Kennedy Thompson's military service and transition to franchising
(5:32) Running Cookies by Design franchise and moving to franchisor side
(9:06) Leadership journey at Mr. Rooter Plumbing and Neighborly
(16:08) Transition to BNI and leadership values
(20:41) Leadership roles and insights
(24:52) Future growth areas in franchising
(26:23) Best business advice received
(27:34) Closing remarks and resources for small business owners
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By Melinda Emerson
5
1010 ratings
In this episode, Melinda Emerson introduces Mary Kennedy Thompson, who shares her journey from military service to a thriving career in franchising. Mary discusses her experience running a Cookies by Design franchise and her transition to the franchisor side, highlighting her leadership roles at Mr. Rooter Plumbing and Neighborly. She also delves into her current role at BNI, emphasizing key leadership values and insights.
Mary Kennedy Thompson is CEO of BNI (Business Networking International), the world’s largest networking franchise. A true business trailblazer, she’s a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, a licensed plumber, and a dynamic leader who has guided major franchise brands, including Neighborly and BNI. As Chair of the International Franchise Association, Mary exemplifies how leadership rooted in service, discipline, and vision can transform entire industries. She is a powerful example of what it means to lead with purpose. For more information: https://www.bni.com/
(0:00) Introduction by Melinda Emerson
(1:08) Guest introduction: Mary Kennedy Thompson
(2:20) Mary Kennedy Thompson's military service and transition to franchising
(5:32) Running Cookies by Design franchise and moving to franchisor side
(9:06) Leadership journey at Mr. Rooter Plumbing and Neighborly
(16:08) Transition to BNI and leadership values
(20:41) Leadership roles and insights
(24:52) Future growth areas in franchising
(26:23) Best business advice received
(27:34) Closing remarks and resources for small business owners